The world's largest snail, specifically the largest terrestrial mollusk, is the giant African snail.
The Giant African Snail: A Terrestrial Giant
Recognized for its impressive size, the giant African snail (Lissachatina fulica, formerly Achatina fulica) holds the title of the world's largest terrestrial mollusk. This means it's the biggest snail found on land.
These remarkable creatures are native to East Africa but have spread to many other parts of the world, often considered an invasive species due to their voracious appetites and rapid reproduction.
Key Features and Size
Based on available information, the giant African snail possesses several distinctive characteristics:
- Status: World's largest terrestrial mollusk.
- Shell Size: Can grow to be more than eight inches in length.
- Shell Shape: Its shell is typically cone-shaped.
- Shell Pattern: Features distinctive cream- and chocolate-colored stripes that run across the whorls of the shell.
- Eggs: The eggs are yellow- to cream-colored and measure approximately one quarter inch in diameter.
Here is a summary of its physical attributes:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Giant African Snail (Lissachatina fulica) |
| Title | World's largest terrestrial mollusk |
| Shell Length | Over 8 inches |
| Shell Shape | Cone-shaped |
| Shell Pattern | Cream- and chocolate-colored stripes |
| Egg Color | Yellow to cream |
| Egg Diameter | ~0.25 inches |
To learn more about the fascinating world of snails, you can explore mollusk species.
This snail's substantial size makes it a notable member of the mollusk family, especially within the terrestrial environment.
